The highly anticipated Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is finally upon us. As a part of the Rolex series, it is a prestigious tournament that the golfing world has looked forward to every year since its inception in 2001. Not only because of its history and prize money but also because of the higher Race to Dubai and Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points.

The Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation is also funded by the tournament. It is involved in helping local and international charities that are selected by the Trustees. The unique format of the competition makes it even more exciting. With celebrities participating with the pros, it is always an entertaining event that makes headlines. Let’s take a deep dive into the format.

What is the format for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship?

In this event, two competitions are played simultaneously: the professional competition and the pro-am team competition. The traditional stroke play rules are followed for the professional competition, which is played over 72 holes. A 36-hole cut is observed as usual, from wherein the top 60 professionals and ties play in the final round.

The pro-am competition uses the best-ball format. Here, both players of the team will play on the same hole. The lower score of the professional and the amateur’s net score will be considered as the team’s score. This adds an interesting dynamic to the contest because if a celebrity does well in a match, their performance can be the difference maker for the team. Top 20 pro-am teams, regardless of the professional member of the team making the individual cut, make it to the final round.

Three breathtaking locations in Scotland serve as the venue: St Andrews (Old Course), Carnoustie Golf Links, and Kingsbarns Golf Links. The tournament consists of 4 rounds, with each course hosting one round during the first three days. The final round is played at St. Andrews on the fourth day.

The unique format of the tournament, along with the unpredictability of the performances of amateurs, adds a lot of excitement to the tournament. The tournament has always attracted the biggest names in golf, and the 2024 edition of the tournament is no different.

Who is set to play in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship?

“It doesn’t get better than winning at St. Andrews; it’s just a very special place,”  said 2023 winner Matt Fitzpatrick in a post-match interview. Other PGA stars like Rory McIlroy and Billy Horschel are also set to feature. In addition to PGA Tour stars, many pros from LIV Golf are also set to feature, such as Jon Rahm, Patrick Reed, and Brooks Koepka. This again will add an interesting angle to the tournament, given the rift between the PGA and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf.

The players have also spoken about how they look forward to playing at St. Andrews. Koepka has even called it his “favorite course in the world.” Rory McIlroy also once said, “It’s one of the most long-standing events on the DP World Tour and one I really enjoy, especially when I partner with my dad.”

Who do you think will win the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship? Let us know in the comments!